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Tennis is often compared to a chess match, with opponents trying to counter each other’s moves on the court.

Daniel Baturyn has experience in both realms. He’s a successful tennis player who used to be a competitive chess player.

Baturyn’s father, Mikhail, is an International Master who coaches chess. He taught Baturyn how to play when he was young. For a two-year period when he wasn’t playing as many tennis tournaments, Baturyn was participating in chess competitions.

But his love for tennis was stronger, and he decided to remain on the court and use the critical thinking skills he gained in chess to enhance his performance with a racket.

Baturyn has developed into a five-star rising senior getting ready to sign with Fresno State. The San Leandro, California native visited FSU in August and played in a men’s open event on the campus. He had a chance to interact with some of his future teammates.

“The team is really strong and it is just the right environment for me,” Baturyn said. “I just fell in love with it after my visit.”